Holding Pattern 2

Last October, I wrote about being in a holding pattern.  I am happy to say (that for the most part), I have chosen to rest in God, be refreshed, slow down, gather my strength, learn to appreciate the stillness and hear His still small voice.

How do I know this?  Howard and I were discussing the changes happening in our lives (he is also headed in a new direction) and I realized that although I am still in a holding pattern, it’s different.  I’m different.  Do I have it all together? Uh, no (evidence the recent Melt Down blog). 

I've heard many pilots say is it only takes a small adjustment to make a major change in trajectory.  I now realize that over the past six months, God has been making small adjustments and changing my course

For so many years, I allowed holding patterns to annoy and discourage me.  I would bemoan the fact that once again I was going around the same mountain, seeing the same scenery.  I would get aggravated that nothing was changing.  Blah, blah, blah, ad infinitum.  

Barring a major catastrophe, exterior change is not going to happen without interior change happening first.  I knew this but didn’t put it into practice until the last few years.  

Mine started with changing my attitude about food, then deep breathing exercises in the mornings and now walking.  Seven years later, I’m fifty pounds lighter and definitely in better shape.  At the same time, I have been working on my mental health and I am once again more confident in my abilities as a musician, singer, writer…friend.

Keith Moore often says, ‘it’s hard to steer a parked car’.  I may be in a holding pattern but I’m moving; not parked.  I can go whatever direction I need to.  I’ve adjusted my attitude.  Woohoo! 

How long will this particular holding pattern last?  Don’t know.  Not worried about it.  I’m going to sit back, enjoy the view and let God handle that part.